Vasotec vs Toprol XL?

I am trying to reduce some of the medications I currently take. My doctor and I both think I could reduce my blood pressure meds. What is the difference between these two medications? Does one have more benefits than the other? I don't know if I should reduce the dose in both or if I could get off of one entirely. Cost is also an issue with these.Thanks so much!

Responses (1)

Congradulations! It sounds as though you have made changes in your diet, excercise, and stress level to help control your blood pressure. That's commitment, Congradulations to you.

I have included the links to the individual meds for your further review. Most importantly Do Not just stop taking Toprol XL. This medication dose must be "tapered down" by your Doctor. "Tapered Down" just means that your Doctor will have you reduce the dose of your medication gradually, allowing your body to adjust to smaller doses as it leaves your system.

High blood pressure is caused by not just one but different factors because the heart is affected by all parts of your body, it all does work together. Vasotec is also a shorter acting medication and helps to reduce blood pressure by working on your kidneys. This is why it is called an ACE, an angiotensin converting enzyme, angiotensin is a chemical made in the kidneys. The kidneys affect blood pressure by controlling the removal of fluid from your body as urine. When they don't remove enough fluid that excess fluid must be pumped by the heart, a lot of extra work for your heart and thus possible high blood pressure.

High blood pressure can also be caused by extra excitation from the nervous system. Toprol XL (think extra long acting) works on the beta cells that are in the heart and throughout your body. Toprol XL is a beta blocker, and thus helps control high blood pressure by blocking/slowing some of the nerve receptors, basically telling them "Hey, Calm Down already!", and they do.

As to which pills you could stop I've tried to help you understand that they work differently. Therefore your Doctor identifying what actually causes your high blood pressure would be most helpful. You mention that the cost of the pills is also an issue, I am hoping you do speak up and tell this to your Doctor. Blunt, direct information is often most efficient for all.